Atletico Madrid confirm Aguirre as new coach

MADRID, May 24 (Reuters) - Atletico Madrid appointed former Osasuna boss Javier Aguirre as coach on a one-year contract on Wednesday.

"I am excited about the challenge and want to lead this club
back to where they deserve to be - at the top in Spain and back
in Europe," Aguirre told a news conference on Wednesday.

The 48-year-old Mexican stepped down as coach of Osasuna at
the end of the season after leading the modest Navarrans into
the Champions League for the first time with a fourth place
finish in the Primera Liga.

Last June he took them to the final of the King's Cup where
they lost 2-1 to Real Betis.

The former Mexico coach, who replaces Pepe Murcia, has been
praised for his skilful management of limited resources and his
ability to motivate players.

Atletico finished a disappointing 10th last season, two
points behind city neighbours Getafe.

"I don't want to talk about the past and what has happened
here," Aguirre said. "I want to take the pressure off the
players so that they take to the pitch focused only on playing
football."

President Enrique Cerezo said Aguirre's appointment was part
of a major reorganisation in the club's sporting administration
which included the departure of director of football Toni Munoz
last week.